Well, here it is, the epilogue. I had fun writing this fic. I don't know if I will return to my Triangle Strategy novelization, but I might try to continue my Octopath Traveler II fic
Disclaimer: Triangle Strategy was created by Square Enix.
True Unity
In the wake of the aftermath of the final battle with Idore and his Automaton Hierophant, Serenoa and Roland renounced their posts as members of the Saintly Seven. Minister Lyla, who took over as the leader of Hyzante, signed a truce with both Prince Serenoa of Glenbrook and Archduke Caeden of Aesfrost. Also, Lyla had taken the liberty of presenting a deed to Glenbrook to Serenoa, which ensured the kingdom's renewed independence.
While most of Serenoa and Caeden's forces went home after the trade agreements and peace accord was settled, Quahaug elected to stay with his mother and help to rebuild Hyzante. The city was in chaos for a while at the loss of their faith and the loss of much of their leadership, but Lyla did her upmost to maintain order. Corentin also remained in Hyzante so he could assist Lyla, for there were now far fewer restrictions on research and on being able to share new discoveries. He even helped to watch over Quahaug and tutor him when Lyla is busy.
As the next few weeks passed, work was being done in repairing what was called the Goddess Shield and the palace was undergoing reconstruction with the help of some builders from Aesfrost and Glenbrook, both nations had sent materials over to help with reconstruction. Quahaug spent time studying so that he can contribute to overseeing affairs in the former Holy City when he came of age, but was encouraged to spend some time with other children of Hyzante in his spare time.
In Aesfrost, Caeden was in his new study in Aesfrost's castle, going over paperwork. Salt taxes have decreased since the peace signing and the end of the Salt Monopoly. The Salt Crystals were now being distributed fairly. Still, there was much work to do. Alexandra had renounced her position as the current Head of the Falkes Demense in Glenbrook and joined Caeden and Daren in the Duchy.
A guard came knocked on the door to Caeden's study"Lord Caeden. Lady Alexandra has come to speak with you."
"Send her in" Caeden responded.
Alexandra was let into the room by the guard"Hello, Caeden."
"Good day, Alexandra. How is life in Aesfrost treating you?" Caeden asked with a smile.
"Fairly well, thank you" Alexandra replied"The people were very kind. And even though Daren has been promoted to General of the Aesfrost army for his efforts during the revolution, he still takes time from his busy schedule to see how I was doing. The room you gave me was more lavish than I expected."
Caeden smiled, warmly"Well, I could hardly let you stay on the streets. Besides, there was something that's been on my mind."
Alexandra tilted her head, curious"What is it?"
"Well" Caeden mustered his courage before responding"Even though I decreed Aesfrost now has a Constitutional Democracy, the people are still wrapping the idea around their heads and think I should maybe marry and have an heir, but an elective monarchy, or duchy in this case, doesn't sound too bad. Speaking of which, how would you feel about courting me?"
"Ah" Alexandra blushed"Well, I can hardly say I am worthy of such an honor. But we've known each other for a long while now, for truth be told, I have become quite fond of you."
"Same, here" Caeden said"No need to rush it, though."
Alexandra smiled"I shall consider your offer, then. And have there been any new news from Glenbrook and Hyzante, lately?"
"I got a letter from Serenoa inviting me to Glenbrook for the upcoming royal wedding. He and Lady Frederica got back together and are now engaged to be wed. They are to ascend the throne, as king and queen." Caeden replied"He said I can invite you if I want. Would you like to come?"
"Truly?" Alexandra asked, pleasantly surprised"Well, It would be terribly rude of me to turn down an invitation, so I shall go with you to attend. Perhaps after the wedding, I may court you, Caeden. Besides, you've been nothing but kind to me since I moved, here."
Caeden blushed"I'm just that way, I guess. And I heard from Milo that Hyzante is doing well for themselves. Minister Lyla is keeping on top of things."
"That's good to hear, and now that the Sect's main purpose has been fulfilled, it has been disbanded" said Alexandra"I still can't say I am at peace with myself, yet, but with you by my side, Caeden, I can handle anything."
"The same goes for me." Caeden said"Well, shall we go?"
The two went to send for an escort and prepare to head for Glenbrook.
In Whiteholm Castle, Serenoa had finished going over some paperwork. The Roselle had either taken up residence in the Roselle village in the Wolffort Demense or started seeking homes and jobs in the Capital city. He had requested that Jerom help Benedict to oversee the Wolffort demense until a permanent governor can be appointed to lead Lord Symon's former territory, while Cordelia took it upon herself to temporarily help manage affairs in the Falkes demense with Avlora and a couple of Glenbrook soldiers protecting her now that Alexandra had stepped down. The people of Glenbrook still couldn't find it in their hearts to forgive Avlora, but they grew accustomed to her, over time.
When he was done, he headed out to the courtyard. He had since changed into a formal black and brown jacket with a matching black tunic under the coat and pants similar to what he wore before he had made the terrible choice to abet Hyzante's lies and give up the freedom of Glenbrook and the Roselle.
Roland was training new members for the Kingsguard, Roland was clad in his old regal green and brown clothes that he had put in storage. The white garbs of the Saintly Seven were sent back to Hyzante once Serenoa and Roland had procured an appropriate change of clothing, since they no longer serve as members of the Seven.
As the training session ended, Roland addressed his friend"Done with that pile of papers you were working on since early morning?"
"Yes" Serenoa nodded"How goes training?"
"It's coming along. And Trish, Travis and their former gang are getting along fine as a penal unit for the kingdom" Roland replied"So, you nervous for the big event this afternoon?"
"I can't deny that I am feeling a little apprehensive for Frederica's and my wedding" the dark-haired prince shrugged"And what of yourself? A little bird told me that you and Hughette were conflicted about a certain something."
Roland flushed in embarrassment"Cordelia told you, didn't she? Guess I can't hide it, now. Neither Hughette or I are willing to budge and make the first move, I am very fond of her, but..."
"But you didn't believe it is feasible given your stations, correct?" Serenoa guessed"I suppose Prince Frani and the Royalists would have complained, but it's not as though the dead can speak. Even if it was against the rules for a Liege and his retainer's relationship to be anything more than professional, as King of Glenbrook, I can change the laws of it is necessary. And before you protest, you'd have ended up doing something quite similar to me and Frederica under different circumstances, am I wrong?"
"No" Roland admitted"You are quite correct there, my friend. If I was still king of Glenbrook, I'd have ordered your and Frederica's marriage to occur on the spot. Are you suggesting perhaps that you are to order Hughette and I to date?"
Serenoa shook his head"Not exactly, I want this to be your decision. As your sibling and the soon-to-be king, I can officially give Hughette permission to court you if that is what you both want."
"I think we should talk to about that with her" Roland said, embarrassed as he tried to change the subject"Our guests are coming at any moment, right?"
Serenoa nodded, and the two headed out of the castle. Frederica, Benedict, Anna, Erador, Geela and Hughette met up with them as they headed for the gates of the city, accompanied by a few guards.
Caeden, Alexandra, Lyla, Quahaug, Corentin and some guards from both Aesfrost and Hyzante soon came to meet them. Serenoa stepped forward to greet the dignitaries"Welcome to Glennbrook, thank you for joining us. It's been a while."
"It has only a few short weeks, but time sure goes by fast when you're busy" Caeden said"How is everything in Glenbrook?"
"We're still working out a few issues, but all is well, otherwise" Serenoa replied"And how are you faring, Alexandra?"
"I am doing well, thank you" Alexandra smiled, politely"Congratulations on your and Frederica's upcoming wedding."
"Thank you" Serenoa inclined his head"There is still much to attend to, but Cordelia and Roland insisted I can put that aside for Frederica and I to make our preparations for the ceremony. She and I agreed to officially begin courting, anew, and only a couple of short weeks after did I ask her to marry me."
"Because even though you are to be king, you'll need a queen and an heir, eventually, anyway, right?" Caeden nodded his head, thoughtfully"And how are things on Hyzante, Minister Lyla?"
"All is well in Hyzante, thank you" Lyla replied"The citizenry and the surviving guards are getting accustomed to life and having more freedom afforded to them than when Idore was in charge. No one will object if anyone is to share their research with everyone, anymore. The new palace's construction is coming along slowly, but surely, thanks to the materials you and King Serenoa provided, Archduke Caeden."
"It was nothing" Caeden said with a kind smile.
They headed into Whiteholm Castle's courtyard, making small talk as they walked. The servants had put out tables and chairs for the guests and were still getting things ready for the ceremony, inside the throne room.
"Trade has been getting off to a slow start, but it is to be expected, but at least the price of salt has gone down" Caeden mentioned.
"I saw to it that the salt crystal pillar and the lake in Hyzante are both utilized to help distribute salt across the whole of Norzelia at reduced prices" Lyla chimed in"At this rate, we should be able to ensure a lasting peace."
"I am glad to hear it" Serenoa nodded, then turned to Hughette"Hughette, not that I mean to pry into your affairs, but could you tell me how you truly feel for Roland?"
Hughette was taken aback by the question"Truthfully, while it may be seen as inappropriate, I suppose I could say I am in love with him."
"She a and I both feel the same way" Roland chimed in"But even as equals in leading the new Kingsguard, I was unsure whether I should act upon my feelings for Hughette or if I should just hold my peace."
Serenoa looked thoughtfully at his brother, then resumed speaking"Well, as soon to be king of Glenbrook, I have a few suggestions for everyone before Frederica and I prepare for our ceremony."
"What might they be?" Lyla asked.
Caeden listened attentively.
Benedict pushed up his spectacles"Whatever you are about to suggest, It may be wise to employ as much tact are you can manage, Lord Serenoa."
"I couldn't agree more, Benedict." Serenoa agreed, then addressed everyone else"Archduke Caeden, Minister Lyla, in future, I would like for our nations to hold a tournament at least once or twice a year to foster friendships and test everyone's skills. In this way, we could fully repair Glenbrook, Hyzante and Aesfrost's relations with one another."
"That can be arranged" Lyla nodded, thoughtfully.
"Works for me" Caeden chimed in.
"I plan to employ Roselle, Hyzantians and people from Glenbrook in civic projects such as seeing to the mines in order to build trust and cooperation" Serenoa added"I already drafted a law prohibiting the mistreatment of Roselle, so hopefully there should be no problem."
"Having Hyzantians and Roselle working together might be a bit difficult, given their rough history, together" Lyla pointed out"But in time, perhaps that shall be feasible. And in exchange for the materials that Caeden sent, I had taken the liberty of having copies of some of the books at our archives made to contribute to the reconstruction of Aesfrost's archives."
"Well, one step at a time, right?" Caeden grinned.
"Indeed, we have to play things by ear" Lyla agreed.
Serenoa was happy to hear off of that"And there is one other thing." He looked at Hughette"Hughette Buckler, answer me truthfully, do you perhaps harbor feelings for Roland?"
"Ah" The Hawk Rider was taken aback by the question"Princess Cordelia told you about it, didn't she?"
"She did" Serenoa nodded"So therefore, I have a request for both you and Roland. It is for the two of you to begin your courtship at the soonest opportunity, should you both wish it."
Roland flushed"I'll be having words with my sister, but I suppose I can't really deny anything at this point. And its safe to assume that it won't be frowned upon if I court Hughette, then?"
"I should think not" Serenoa assured him"Besides, you deserve as much happiness as Frederica and I do. As the to-be king of Glenbrook, I decree that Retainers and their Lieges may court as long as it doesn't interfere too badly with their duties. Although it does not matter, because even if I forbade it, you two could always go about it in secret."
"How unlike you" Hughette shook her head in astonishment"But never let it be said that the King of Glenbrook lacks such kindness."
Roland walked over to the Hawk Rider"Well, I suppose it is official. Hughette, what say we begin our courtship, tomorrow at the tavern for dinner?"
Hughette smiled"I would like that."
"It sounds like you have everything worked out." Came a voice. Cordelia and Avlora walked into the room, joined by another regal-looking young man and soldiers from the Falkes and Telliore Demenses.
"Cordelia, Avlora, Lord Aden" Serenoa greeted"Glad you can join us."
Aden bowed his head"I couldn't very well miss the upcoming wedding, you picked a fine bride, Serenoa Wolffort. I heard that she was bald, but still quite beautiful."
"I thank you, Lord Aden" Frederica said at the compliment"However, since I no longer have to hide my heritage, I have allowed it to start growing back. I can't really guarantee it will be the same as when I last had it before I had to shave myself bald."
"It doesn't matter what it will look like, you're still going to look just as beautiful in my eyes" Serenoa assured his soon-to-be bride.
"Thank you" Frederica flushed.
"So, how are things in Telliore?" Serenoa asked Aden.
The current ruler of House Telliore replied"As productive as always. Trade coming along quite smoothly."
"I've just finished tending to business at Falkes" Cordelia added"Avlora is gradually gaining the people's trust, which hasn't been easy. They seem to think she can be trusted with my safety. And in regards to finding a new successor for both the Wolffort and Falkes demense, a few nobles have taken an interest. Although I fear that some may not have the demenses' best interests at heart."
"Then perhaps it its best if Benedict and Jerrom continue to share joint leadership of Wolffort for the time being" Serenoa suggested"In regards to Falkes, I believe we can entrust it to Lord Ricard, Anna told me that he is from a minor noble house, but he cares very much for our kingdom."
"I shall send Lord Ricard a message to let him know" said Aden.
"And one more thing" Serenoa added"I plan to form an expedition team in future to search for Centralia, we've no proof of its existence aside from Lady Orlea's diary, so that will have to be carefully planned so that we do not lose the expedition team. And with that, Its safe to say that concludes business proceedings for the afternoon, then?"
"It does" Lyla nodded"You and Frederica should perhaps start getting ready for your upcoming nuptials."
"Ah, of course." Serenoa nodded, then looked at Frederica"Shall we begin preparing?"
"Of course" Frederica nodded, going with Cordelia, Avlora and Lyla to get dressed for the ceremony. Serenoa, Roland and Benedict went to get ready, themselves while their guests headed for the throne room.
As everyone waited for the ceremony to start, with the Rosellian Elder being asked to officiate the marriage, Erador wept with pride"Ah, the lad has grown and learned much the past year and a half."
"It is the same for Frederica, they both went through a great deal more grief than they ought to because of that fateful choice that caused their opposing convictions to tear them apart." Geela concurred.
"And now, I couldn't be any prouder of my elder brothers" Cordelia smiled"I wish my father and Frani were alive to witness this happy union between Serenoa and Frederica. And Lord Symon, of course."
"I'm sure they're looking down upon us from the heavens" Caeden said"I bet the true goddess is beaming, now that the false teachings have been debunked. So, Minister Lyla, do you plan on reorganizing the Saintly Seven?"
Lyla nodded"In future, perhaps. There are those among my people who strongly wish for a new Hierophant to give them guidance. If Quahaug wishes it, I could talk with him about accepting the position when he comes of age. He was born with his powers, but I believe the true goddess may have had a hand in it. If Idore's prayers weren't being answered, that may have been a message from the goddess to not depend on her overly much. But the old man didn't see it that way."
"I am a bit nervous at the prospect of someday leading Hyzante, but I have my mother and Corentin to help me" Quahaug said, rubbing his head"Oh, and we made sure to discuss my future with the people I grew up with at the village. They were a bit sad to hear I moved to Hyzante to live with my mother, sure, but they assured me that they'll manage, even without my clairvoyance."
Caeden nodded"Good to hear. And from now on, with our three nations working together more closely than ever, that should be enough for peace to last for a very, very long time. Do you think so, Quahaug?"
Quahaug shrugged"I can't really see that far into the future if I wanted to, but I am inclined to agree."
"Everyone" a nearby guard announced after a short while longer"Lord Serenoa and Lady Frederica are about ready."
Everyone stood in attention as Serenoa and Frederica entered the room and headed down the hall, dressed in formal attire. As the couple prepared to say their vows, the rest of their companions looked on, happily. No matter what, they would do what they can to ensure that peace lasts for generations without lies and bloodshed.
After saying their wedding vows, Serenoa smiled happily at Frederica"From this day forward, as your husband, I shall rule Glenbrook to the best of my ability and do my upmost to continue making up for causing our fallout from last year for the rest of my life."
"I know you will" Frederica nodded as she and her new husband kissed, content that Norzelia is now at peace without any trace of lies and deceit. It didn't even matter to her now whether or not Centralia truly existed, so long as she has her friends and Serenoa by her side.
The End
Finally got the epilogue up and ready, I hope the fic was enjoyable. I might eventually continue working on my Octopath Traveler fic. In case anyone hasn't read it yet, its called Octoopath Traveler II: Crusaders of Justice. But we'll see. Maybe I will eventually continue the novelization and squeeze Caeden and Alexandra in, but we'll see. I might do something else, instead.
I hope this story was enjoyable.
